The first film by Space Dream Productions brings to life a story of conflict and begins to deconstruct the violent ideology of war. When US a soldier (Brendan Healy) and a Viet Cong (Doan Nguyen) soldier find themselves trapped at the bottom of a pit, they must work together in order to free themselves.
Beginning with tense hand to hand combat, the two soldiers instinctively attack one another in what appears to be a fight to the death. Director Koura Linda and stunt coordinator Melissa Tracy shine early on in the film as the brilliant fight chorography unfolds.
When the two soldiers realise they are stuck together, the pair must confront the fact that they are fellow humans and learn to trust one another – despite both believing they are in the presence of the enemy; something that the language barrier makes quite difficult. As the pair try to make sense of one another, we become more acquainted with Healy’s excellent characterisation of the US soldier. Names on the Wall is so successful because it refuses to conform to the traditional war movie format that places the American soldiers on a pedestal of glory. The US soldier is arrogant, flawed and initially selfish. However the development of the character is a testament to how humans can overcome their prejudices.
Both soldiers are able to bond over their belief in a higher power as well as the fact they both have families at home. To capture this exchange without using a shared language shows clever writing and filmmaking from Nick Gambino and Koura Linda, utilising symbols and pictures over words. The writing is also very witty and humorous, despite the serious implications, and the comic relief is very effective. Nguyen is particularly funny in delivering the scathing comments on the stupidity of the American talking as if he understands English.
The pair manage to devise a plan to get out of the pit – but it relies on trust and teamwork. The final act of the film is an explosion of tension that leaves viewers reminded of the fact that violence breeds violence in a ceaseless cycle of destruction.
With impeccable acting, writing and direction, as well as brilliant cinematography, Names on the Wall is a story that everyone should see. A particular highlight is the wonderful score by Ozie Cargile II which perfectly captures the mood of the film, mirroring the action in some places which is a wonderful example of attention to detail.
Watch the trailer now.